Unpredictable
***Future Warning: There will be much of shounen-ai in the next chapter and lemons will follow shortly. That means sex, for those of you that don't know. ^-^
**Author's Note:
hey! I got this up on time! Well…technically it's 11:30 p.m. but it's still Thursday like I promised! ^_^ And I know that there doesn't seem to be so much about Duo and Heero's relationship, but that will definitely progress! You'll see much more of how they get together coming up!Chapter 6: Taken Hostage
At the sound of the loud roar of the copters, Quatre looked frantically around, hoping to get it all over with. His heart was beating abnormally fast but not because they were currently tied up and about to be rescued.
I have a…We have a date with them…
Quatre could feel the excitement running through his veins. He tried to picture what he would wear to the dinner but was too distracted to think clearly. Listening closely, he heard that the copters were beginning to land. He smiled at Duo, who winked at him secretly, glad for once that he was blessed with extra protection.
The door suddenly barged open and Derak, Jesse and Lola stomped inside, Derak in the front. Quatre not only saw the angry expression on his face he could feel the rage coursing through his system as he neared the four of them. Derak stopped, his eyes studying them closely and suddenly stopped dead on Quatre, hardening. He thrust his hand in his pocket and pulled out a familiar object.
"What is going on?!" he shouted angrily, shaking the cell phone in his hand.
Quatre just stared at him, "You might want to be careful, that wasn't cheap."
Derak moved forward with quick strides and stood in front of Quatre, grabbing his chin roughly. Quatre made a sound of protest from the harsh grip, feeling the pressure of his fingers digging into his skin. Duo struggled against the binds to help him, but was watched closely by Jesse, who gave him a warning look.
"Listen, pretty boy, you better tell me what's going on or I'll find a way to make you tell me," Derak threatened, dark eyes blazing into shining turquoise. "Is this cell phone being traced?"
"I don't know what you're talking about," Quatre said, crying out when he squeezed harder.
"Get your hands off him!" Duo exclaimed, glaring at him.
Derak shot him an irritated look, "Why don't you shut up before I put a bullet in your head? Or better yet…," Derak released Quatre's chin, using his hand to dip into his pocket and pull out a pistol, "I'll put a bullet in your head."
Quatre's eyes widened considerably as the pistol was placed inches before his head, aiming between his eyes. Derak's finger was hovering over the trigger, sneering at him victoriously, noticing Quatre's expression was clearly full of fear.
"Oh look, I think he's scared now," Jesse smirked, getting a deadly glare from Duo.
Derak's smirk widened, "They may not take ransoms but will they take bodies? I think it's time to say goodbye, princey. I've had enough of you and I'm not risking getting caught because of some children who have no idea what they're getting into."
His finger was clearly ready to pull the trigger, the pleasurable smirk on his face only getting wider, as if imagining Quatre's flawless skin covered in blood. Quatre was certainly afraid now, feeling that Derak was not bluffing. His fear, however, was suddenly diminishing as a new feeling took over. The emotion was dominated by anger, though Quatre could sense a bit of protection in it. The last thing Quatre noticed as Derak's finger pushed on the trigger was that it wasn't his emotion. A shot rang out in the silence as Quatre closed his eyes, not wanting to know when the bullet was going to go straight through him. He could feel his heart pounding in his chest, awaiting the sharp pain before the immediate death, but it never came.
Wondering if it had been completely painless, he opened his eyes softly, looking around. He turned to Duo, seeing the shocked expression on his features. Quatre noticed Duo was looking down instead of at him. Following his gaze, Quatre looked down in front of him where Derak lay, sprawled on the floor and clutching his bleeding leg while panting from the pain. Quatre's cell phone had flung from his hand, landing beside Trowa.
"Who the…hell did that?" Derak asked through clenched teeth.
"I did."
Quatre's eyes lightened immensely, knowing the familiar voice in a second. His eyes turned to meet Rashid's, who still had the gun pointed towards the criminals, a firm and dangerous expression planted on his face. Quatre had never seen in so angry before and was suddenly very glad he was on a constant watch for his safety.
"Rashid!" Quatre smiled, his eyes shimmering slightly as if tears were to come, but none did. "You made it right on time."
He heard Derak pant and looked down to see his eyes boring into him. "You little— ," Derak's voice was cut off as a warning shot was fired by Rashid, ending right by his hand.
Rashid slowly lowered the gun, motioning behind him as several newly acquired guards, that worked for Rashid on several different assignments, including protecting Quatre, entered the room and pointed guns at the other two uninjured criminals. A couple of the many guards helped untie the four of them. Quatre's face softened, his eyes brightening as he approached Rashid.
"Thank you, Rashid," he smiled.
Rashid nodded, a smile taking place of the threatening expression, "Of course master Quatre. There is no way some simple-minded crooks are getting away the murder of the Winner heir."
Lowering his eyes for a second, Quatre felt his happiness grow, grateful he had such close companions that watched out for him. He lifted his head again and smiled sincerely.
"I know you'll put them right where they belong," Quatre said, turning to watch Derak struggling even with an injured leg. His eyes locked onto Quatre's and his glare intensified.
"You won't get away with this! I'll see you in court pretty boy!"
Rashid narrowed his eyes, "I'm afraid there will be no trial, sir," he said with complete loathing. "You're going straight to jail."
"On what accounts?! You have no proof!" Derak snarled.
Unexpectedly, Rashid smiled at him, a cold, bitter smile, "Actually, there is quite a lot of proof. Your entire conversation here was recorded and sent to me, which means that your face is also on tape. One look and the judge won't even have to call a jury."
Quatre felt Derak's surprise and anger from the sudden shock of hearing that he had no chance of escaping punishment. His anger suddenly turned to hatred, but it wasn't directed at Quatre. Derak's eyes locked onto the woman nearby, being held tightly by one of Rashid's men.
"Lola! This is all your doing, you worthless female! Not only did you leave evidence around, but you left it in capable hands and let us be trapped by some prince and his army of loyal servants! You bit— "
A guard knocked the wind out of him, preventing him from completing his insult. Lola's eyes had begun to water as she stared down at the floor. Quatre could see and feel her guilt and sorrow, but at the same time felt new strength rising within her. She would have to spend her sentenced time, but once she got out of jail Quatre had a feeling she wouldn't be relying on men anymore by doing their dirty work. She'd finally work for herself and make use of her life.
The three of them, including the two thugs who had woken up only moments after Derak had been shot, were taken away toward the helicopter to be brought before a judge, who would no doubt find them guilty. Quatre felt a hand on his shoulder and turned toward Rashid who was looking down at him with concern.
"Are you all right now, master Quatre?"
The feelings of love and concern emitted off of him and into Quatre's senses as his eyes began to shimmer slightly. Rashid cared about him like a son and every time it made Quatre feel even more grateful he was taken care of. His true father hadn't been around much for him, wanting Quatre to be exactly like him and became more distant when he found out Quatre had other plans. But Rashid was there for him always, guarding him day and night but not locking him up like a prisoner. Quatre felt as if he were Rashid's son, minus the "master" title.
Rarely seen in public, Quatre wrapped his arms around Rashid, receiving an embrace in return. Rashid wanted to appear deadly to strangers in public, letting them know that Quatre was well-guarded and out of anyone's reach, had anyone had intentions of hurting him. Once at home out of the view of people, Rashid was much more gentle and caring and, because of the circumstances, he was showing his caring side openly.
"Hey, don't I get a hug?"
Quatre released Rashid, turning to see Duo grinning at them. Rashid nodded towards him.
"And how are you, Duo?"
"I've been worse," he grinned.
Rashid smiled slightly at his humor and glanced back down at Quatre.
"Are you sure you don't want to go home yet, master Quatre?"
Quatre shook his head, "No, I don't want to. Not yet…Duo and I still have some things planned. Besides, my birthday is in two days. If I need anything I'll give you a call."
Rashid nodded, "All right, but at least let me give you all a ride back to the hotel."
Quatre turned behind him to glance at Heero and Trowa, who were standing quietly watching. Heero nodded in agreement and Quatre smiled, turning toward Rashid.
"That'd be great."
The four of them followed Rashid out of the structure and toward a private helicopter. The helicopter that held the criminals had all ready left so Quatre was finally able to sit back in the copter seats and relax, knowing the worst was over. Duo sat beside him as Heero and Trowa climbed behind them. Quatre could feel butterflies stirring in his stomach, realizing that in the next day they were going on a date with Heero and Trowa. For the moment though, it was nearing midnight and it was time to head back to the hotel rooms for some sleep before the exciting day approached.
*~*~*~*
The beautiful, warm rays of the summer sun shone down through the clear nylon curtains, covering the two sleeping figures occupying the bed. It washed over them as if trying to erase the stress from the previous night. The bed moved slightly as one of the figures rolled over, the thin sheets slipping off the lithe body.
Putting a delicate hand up, Quatre tried to block the sun's rays from his eyes as he lifted his body into a sitting position. He glanced over beside him at Duo who was still sleeping soundly.
I wonder what time it is. I remember getting off the helicopter, saying goodbye to Rashid…and then I don't remember anything else. I must've been too exhausted.
Slipping out of the comfortable bed, Quatre peered at the clock on the dresser and read that it was nearing noon. His eyes widened, realizing that he had never even slept in past nine. Quatre crawled onto the bed toward Duo and shook him firmly but with care. Duo groaned a bit and rubbed his eyes, blinking from the sunlight.
"Quat," he mumbled. "What time is it?"
"It's almost noon," Quatre said, tilting his head to show his surprised expression.
Duo stared at him for a minute before a small grin replaced his neutral features, "Quatre Winner slept in until noon? Now that's a miracle."
Quatre huffed and rolled his eyes, sighing as he rested his head on Duo's stomach. Duo smiled serenely and placed his hand in Quatre's hair, rubbing his scalp. Quatre sighed and moved his head into a more comfortable position as his eyes fluttered closed.
"You still tired?" Duo asked, yawning slightly.
Quatre nodded against his stomach, "Yeah, but if I sleep anymore I'll be too tired to do anything all day."
Duo laughed lightly, "And you wouldn't want to miss shopping for new clothes."
Quatre lifted his head and peered at his friend in curiosity, "You want to shop again?"
Duo's eyebrows rose slightly in question, "Don't you want a new outfit for dinner tonight?"
Quatre's bright eyes widened in remembrance, "We have a date tonight!"
A sly grin crossed Duo's face, "And we want to look good for our dates. Plus we've got to get you a birthday outfit. Your birthday is tomorrow."
Nodding, Quatre propped his elbows on Duo's stomach, holding his chin up, "I know. You don't have to go all out though, Duo. I don't mind having a simple birthday. This vacation has been enough, believe me."
Duo noted the emphasis and smiled, "Well, I think having Trowa should be enough for you," he winked.
Quatre blushed and swatted at his friend, sitting up once again, "And what about Heero?"
"What about him?" Duo grinned.
Quatre's blush faded as his grin turned more impish, "Duo…don't try and hide your emotions from me. I can feel them. You're attracted to him just as bad as I'm attracted to Trowa."
Duo shrugged, "Yeah, but at least I don't drool every time I see him."
"I do not drool!" Quatre crossed his arms, glaring at him.
Duo laughed, shaking his head as he slid out of the bed, "Quatre, don't try and look mad it only makes you look cuter."
Quatre blushed again, but less noticeably as he stood to get dressed. He knew Duo couldn't read his emotions but he still wondered if Duo knew exactly how much he thought about Trowa. It was a strange but exciting new emotion for him. He had never been in a relationship at all and he was all ready crushing on Trowa. He couldn't look at him without melting under his piercing gaze and couldn't stand beside him without trying not to blush. It hadn't been so bad before, but now Quatre had butterflies in his stomach and they wouldn't go away. He was anxious about the dinner that night, remembering how they agreed to meet them at the restaurant at seven.
At the same time, when he really concentrated, he could feel Duo's emotions over Heero as well. He knew that Duo was a little more sexually attracted than just having a crush, but he was able to hide his feelings a lot more easily than Quatre could. And Heero's feelings were buried too far for Quatre to sense. It was in the helicopter that previous night that he had been able to feel both Heero and Trowa's emotions somewhat, but was too tired to really concentrate.
Quatre finished dressing just as Duo grabbed the key card from the table. Duo stuffed it in his short pockets and smiled at him.
"You ready for a shopping spree?"
Quatre smiled back and nodded, knowing that they both were going to be very picky for their outfits for that night. Duo turned around heading toward the door as Quatre followed him. There were some stores in the hotel, but Duo knew much better stores several miles down the road, in which they had to take another taxi.
The taxi ride didn't take more than ten minutes, which was nothing compared to the time they spent shopping. Quatre hadn't realized just how many clothes stores there were, nor how obsessed he was with finding the right outfit. They spent two hours in a very expensive clothes shop that had leather, like the outfits Duo bought for their night rendezvous, and clothes made from silk and Egyptian cotton. Some of the clothing was styled with embroidered jewels or accessories like belts.
By the time they had practically tried on everything in the store, Quatre had bought a smooth navy blue, Egyptian cotton shirt that was styled so that it clung to him right below his shoulders, revealing his creamy, flawless skin. His collar bone, shoulders and upper back were showing. The shirt had nearly invisible tank top straps holding the almost "tube-top shirt" up. He also bought tight matching, navy-blue nylon pants, that were as shiny as silk and thin enough that he could feel the summer breeze wash over him. He knew there would be air conditioning in the hotel restaurant so the pants would be fine.
Duo bought a specially designed tank top that wrapped partially around his neck, leaving a large gap of space in which his collar bone down to where his sternum lie, was showing. There were also gaps letting his shoulders show, much like Quatre's shirt, except that material came back together to cover the rest of his chest and abdomen. He had simple, but tight jeans on that had embroidered jewels bearing a D on the back pocket.
They shopped around further afterwards, Duo picking up a surprise birthday outfit for Quatre, in which he said he wouldn't let him see till the next day. They got large ice cream cones from another shop and walked around licking the ice cream as they talked and had a good time. Before they knew it the day was nearing evening time.
To pass up the few hours they had left before the dinner date, they went on a tour of the island, getting to see much more beach and wondrous spots that showed the island's true beauty. Quatre especially enjoyed the lighthouse on the edge of the ocean, peering out across at the hotels and hotspots of the island. As it neared the time of the anticipated event, they changed in the bathrooms into their new outfits, taking a taxi cab back to the hotel.
Quatre was wringing his hands nervously, wondering how the dinner would go. During the taxi cab ride he had thought about the date and wondered if Heero and Trowa suspected it was a date. Would they have agreed to it if they had asked them both on a date? The fear of rejection was almost enough to make the butterflies intensify, but he managed to take some deep breaths to calm himself.
It was too soon when the taxi stopped at the hotel to let them out. Quatre paid the man and followed Duo out, staring up at the large hotel as if he was studying it. Duo began walking toward the entrance when he noticed Quatre wasn't following.
"You all right, Quat?"
Quatre nodded slowly, lowering his eyes slightly, "Just a bit nervous, I guess."
Duo blinked but nodded in understanding, "You're afraid Trowa doesn't feel the same way about you as you do him."
Quatre blinked up at his friend, curious as to how he knew what he was feeling without having an empathic ability. Duo just smiled and shook his head.
"Don't worry so much about it and just have fun. Just because you haven't felt anything coming from him doesn't mean he doesn't feel the same way. He could just be hiding it from you. The best thing to do is to get to know him better and see if you truly feel strongly about him without your empathy ability."
Quatre nodded hesitantly, but smiled, "Thanks, Duo. I feel better now."
Duo smiled back and stuck out a hand, grasping Quatre's hand in his as they walked toward the hotel together. They headed to the second floor, knowing where the restaurant was located. It was the same restaurant they had been to previously, and the same waiter greeted them with a smile.
"Well, if it isn't my two favorite customers," the waiter winked. "Another special table for two?"
Duo grinned, "Not this time, Jake. We're meeting a couple…friends."
Jake glanced up in surprise, "Really? What are their names? They might have arrived all ready."
"Heero and Trowa," Duo answered.
He read the sheet in front of him and finally looked up at them, "Well, you two are in luck. It seems that they're all ready here. They're in the booth near a window with an ocean view. Somewhere along the right," Jake pointed.
"Thanks," Duo smiled.
Quatre smiled sweetly as he passed him, sensing the disappointment Jake was feeling. He no doubt suspected they were on a date. Quatre followed Duo as they made their way toward the booths on the right side with an ocean view. Quatre's eyes widened with slight nervousness as they spotted Heero and Trowa sitting across from each other quietly in a corner booth. As they approached closer, Quatre noticed that Heero was also wearing jeans, like he usually did, only this time he was also wearing a very thin blue, short-sleeved blouse to go with it. Trowa was dressed in tight jeans as well with a somewhat formal, collared white blouse.
Do they always dress similarly even when they're not working?
Quatre didn't have time to dote on his question as Heero looked up, spotting them, and nodding politely. Duo immediately sat next to Heero, giving Quatre no choice but to sit next to Trowa. He could feel the butterflies increase but managed to keep his face calm and relaxed, giving Trowa a soft smile.
"Didn't think you two would be early," Duo smiled in a teasing manner.
Heero looked at him, as they sat side-by-side, and shrugged, "We had nothing else to do."
Duo just smiled at him, locking eyes with him. Heero held the gaze for a moment before blinking and then turning to look out the window. Quatre noticed Duo move over slightly.
"Have you two all ready decided?" Quatre asked, trying to keep the conversation simple and relaxed.
"We always get the same thing," Trowa replied, speaking for Heero as well who nodded slightly.
"And what's that?" Duo asked, glancing from Heero to Trowa.
Heero folded his arms across his chest, "The special."
Duo turned to glance at Quatre with raised eyebrows, but Quatre just shrugged. They most likely had been the restaurant numerous times and opted for the surprise special that changed each day.
A comfortable silence reigned on them as Duo and Quatre studied the menus, vaguely listening to the chatter around them.
"Hey look, Quat, they have cream soda today. That's your favorite, isn't it?" Duo looked up at him.
Quatre smiled, "Yeah, it is. I never thought to ask them if they had it the last time."
Duo's grin widened, "Well drink all you like! After all, we're not the ones paying for it."
"Duo!" Quatre scolded, slightly surprised he said that out loud. "You don't take advantage of people's hospitality."
"I was just stating a fact," Duo said, raising his eyebrows slightly as he smiled almost mysteriously toward him.
Quatre's eyes narrowed ever-so-slightly, "Duo!…," Quatre turned toward Heero, "I'm sorry, don't listen to him."
"It's fine. You can have as much as you like," Heero said, staring back at Quatre, "We get it all for free."
Quatre stared back in surprise, "For…free? Because you're lifeguards?"
Heero and Trowa nodded simultaneously. Quatre turned to glance at Duo as they exchanged looks of fascination before impish grins crossed their features.
"Are you gentlemen ready?"
A waiter smiled at them, notebook in hand. The waiter was dressed in an all white uniform just like they had seen before. He had enormously bright blue eyes and light sandy-colored hair. Quatre closed his menu and nodded, glancing at Duo who did the same. Quatre ordered the "home-made" Fettuccine Alfredo, making sure to order a large glass of cream soda, and Duo ordered the traditional Cayman cuisine, which was the seafood special. Trowa ordered for both him and Heero, saying no more than a few words.
Quatre noticed, as the waiter wrote down their order, that he was glancing occasionally toward Duo. Quatre focused on him, narrowing his eyes subtly as he concentrated on his feelings. The waiter was definitely attracted to Duo, but Quatre couldn't discern whether or not he was just admiring Duo's attractiveness or if it was something deeper.
The waiter caught Quatre's eye and smiled, his eyes glistening an unreadable emotion that slipped past Quatre's empathy radar. Before he could try to catch the emotion, the waiter had left and was walking toward the kitchen to tell the cooks the orders.
Quatre leaned back in his seat, feeling slightly awkward that he didn't know how to start a conversation with Trowa. He thought it would've been easier now that they were all on the same side, and the mess had been taken care of, but now he couldn't even open his mouth. Quatre glanced sideways to see Trowa sipping his drink in a relaxing manner, not really paying attention to anything. Quatre lowered his eyes, his confidence disappearing as the nervous feeling in the pit of his stomach grew. He didn't notice Duo watching him intently, another strange glint in his eye.
As he tried to think of something to say to Trowa, mainly to try and feel through his emotionless mask to see if he even wanted Quatre to be there, since his confidence was completely slipping, he could feel his leg brush up against something. His focus slipped slightly as he realized that someone's foot was touching his leg. He looked over at Duo, who was stirring his drink casually, sipping now and then. Quatre had been so focused he had barely noticed the drinks had been served. Just as he tried to tap the person's foot to see who would react, the presence of it vanished.
Quatre glanced at Trowa, who was still quietly staring into space at nothing in particular, being comfortable with the silence. Then he glanced at Heero, who had his arms folded and was looking out the window. His eyes roamed over to Duo and abruptly stopped, seeing the wide smirk on his friend's face. As he opened his mouth to question him he felt a sharp pain as his leg was kicked. Quatre yelped, jumping from the impact and toppled over into Trowa. Trowa had caught him before he had fallen completely over, but he realized Trowa's hands were touching his bare shoulders. Quatre fought down a blush that was creeping to his face and instead focused on the pain throbbing in his leg.
"Oh, Quat! I'm so sorry, are you all right?" Duo asked, feigning innocence.
Quatre was rubbing his leg and in too much pain to glare at him, "Ow…Duo…," Quatre said.
"I didn't realize your leg was there," Duo said, staring at him worriedly, though Quatre could sense complete mischief and humor beneath his mask.
"Are you all right?" Trowa asked quietly.
Quatre nodded, sitting himself completely upright again as Trowa's hands left his shoulders.
"I'm fine, thanks."
Quatre suddenly glared at him, "Well what were you doing swinging your legs like that?!"
Duo stared back at him, "I was just relaxing…"
Before Quatre could retort, the waiter came over.
"Can I get you anything else before your meals are served?" he asked politely.
Quatre wanted to delve into his emotions to find out what the strange feeling was, but he was in too much pain.
"Yes…ice please," Quatre said, rubbing his leg.
The waiter looked at him, glancing at where he was rubbing, and then at the mischievous smile on Duo's face, and nodded, turning to leave. He came back a minute later with a bag of ice and Quatre took it gratefully. The waiter smiled, glancing at Duo once very quickly, before departing.
"Well that sure started things up," Duo said, putting on another grin.
Quatre had the urge to kick Duo back under the table, but a sudden sharp feeling cut through him. He instinctively put a hand to his chest, rubbing the invisible sore spot as a strong emotion overtook him. Duo glanced up at him from his drink.
"Hey Quat, you all right?"
Quatre tensed, the emotion increasing. His had removed his hand from his chest, but his face contorted into worry.
"Something's not right," he said.
Heero and Trowa had turned toward him too, as Duo studied him, knowing what was wrong.
Duo leaned in closer, "Is it another feeling?" he asked, momentarily forgetting about the other two.
Quatre nodded, unaware of Heero and Trowa watching and listening.
"What does it feel like?" Duo asked, observing him.
Quatre opened his mouth to reply but a sudden scream broke out in the room, causing them to look around. Several scared voices rang out as waiters began running from an unknown destination toward the kitchen. Duo's eyebrows furrowed as he watched the display.
"What's going on? Has there been a fight?" Duo asked.
"It seems something like that," Heero spoke up, also watching the people.
Quatre watched as several other people from different tables began wondering what was going on as well. Just then a loud crash was heard as Quatre saw a woman trip over a chair leg and fall to the ground. She looked about in hysterics, but no one seemed to be helping her. They were preoccupied with something else.
"That woman needs help!" Quatre blurted out, and before he knew it he was rushing toward her.
"Quat, wait!" Duo exclaimed, unable to stop him.
Quatre rushed over to the woman, kneeling down beside her. She had golden brown hair and frightened honey eyes. And just by looking at her ankle, Quatre noticed she had sprained it.
"Here, do you need some help?" Quatre asked politely, extending a hand.
She reached out toward him, trying to lift herself up but fell back down in too much pain. She began to cry hysterically and Quatre tried to comfort her.
"It'll be all right. We can call someone down to help you up."
"No, no! Please, I have to get out of here!" she screamed.
Quatre's eyebrows furrowed, "Why? What's the matter?"
Just then another scream and shout broke out. Quatre turned to see a woman running toward the restaurant.
"Help! Help!" she screamed, waving her arms. "He's got a gun!"
Before her words had sunk in, a man appeared holding out a gun, pointed forward. Screams came left and right as people in their seats began to try and back away, but it was no use. The only way out of the restaurant was past him and he looked ready to shoot anyone that came within ten feet of him. The man was tall but skinny and had glasses, looking about in his thirties. His eyes were darting everywhere and he was sweating as he held the gun. He looked as if he had gone mad, or was incredibly angry about something.
Quatre was watching, paralyzed to the spot, next to the sobbing woman. He saw the waiter, Jake, up in front with his arms raised taking a step forward.
"Please, sir, put down the gun," Jake said calmly.
The man's eyes darted everywhere as he took a shaky breath, "No body move! If one person moves I'll shoot!"
More gasps and cries were issued but no body made a move, luckily. The man then turned his head in the direction of where Quatre was, taking some steps forward.
"Y-you…you can't!" he shouted, his hand shaking as he approached further. "You can't dump me Maria!"
The sobbing woman next to Quatre cried harder, clutching Quatre's hand in a death grip. She tried to pull herself behind Quatre as if to hide from his view, tears running down her cheeks.
"Please sir," Jake said, his arms still raised.
"Shut up and get down on the floor! ALL OF YOU!" he shouted, pointing his gun in all different directions.
Immediately, his command was obeyed. The waiters, waitresses and customers all lowered themselves to the floor, some crying, others just petrified. Quatre was luckily all ready kneeling on the floor. He was too stunned to even breathe.
"P-please…," the woman sobbed, looking up at the man fearfully, "please d-don't do this. I'm s-sorry…I do like you, just n-not like that."
"Don't give me that!" he shouted angrily, directing the gun towards her. "You never liked me did you? You only decided to go out to dinner with me to get to know my best friend better!"
The woman started shaking her head, unable to respond as her crying intensified. The man was staring venomously at her, his glasses slipping off the bridge of his nose.
"You thought you could try and fool me, didn't you?! You're going to pay!"
"NO! Please Robert, you d-don't want to do this!" she cried, clutching onto Quatre's shirt.
Robert's eyes suddenly latched onto Quatre, finally noticing his presence. Quatre could feel the emotion dwelling beneath the surface, knowing that it wasn't good. The man was jealous, extremely jealous and angry. Quatre guessed it was because he had liked the woman a lot and she hadn't felt the same way.
"Oh…I see now," the man said, his voice lowering in pitch somewhat, staring angrily. "It wasn't my best friend, you had someone else the whole time!"
Quatre's eyes widened as he realized the man, Robert, was staring directly at him. He tried to move his mouth in protest but couldn't form any words. He was too stunned to even remember to breathe. The woman began shaking her head harshly, not wanting to get Quatre involved, but was sobbing so hard she couldn't speak.
"So this is the person you replaced me with," he said, his brown eyes boring into Quatre's. "This boy is more important than me, Maria? What does he have that I haven't got? I'm the smartest man at work, you know! Is it because he's young? Or is it because he's your slut?!"
Quatre's mouth opened in shock at the implication. The man thought she used people for sex? Not only that, but he thought Quatre was the one she was with. He had truly lost it. It seemed like the common situation of the geeky boy loving a beautiful woman only to find she has no interest in him and becomes overly jealous and obsessive over her, making rash conclusions and trying to figure out who she possibly likes better, even if there is no one.
Robert glared harshly, sweat dripping from his forehead as he stared at them enraged. The rest of the restaurant was silent, obviously aware the man had lost his mind. Most everyone there had seen Quatre sitting with others, but no one would voice anything unless they had a death wish.
Robert suddenly laughed, a shaky, raspy laugh as he stared at them, "So that's it, huh? You've replaced me with him, haven't you?! Oh yeah, now I see…he just gives you everything, doesn't he? You'd rather settle for some prostitute picked up off than street than a man who can be successful for you?! A woman who thinks that low shouldn't deserve to live!"
The woman, Maria, screamed and latched onto Quatre tighter as Robert put his finger on the trigger.
"Wait, please!" Quatre suddenly blurted out. "You're making a mistake!"
Robert stared at him, his finger still on the trigger, "A mistake? No, she's the one who made the mistake! Choosing you over me! Even if you didn't know about us, it doesn't matter. I won't forgive her!"
"But we're not together!" Quatre prodded, hoping the man would at least listen. "I don't even know her!"
Robert lifted his head, glaring angrily, "No?! Then why is she holding your hand!?"
"Because she's scared! You're scaring her!" Quatre exclaimed.
"Well she should've thought about my feelings!" Robert shouted.
Quatre licked his lips, hoping to get through to him. Using his empathic abilities, he tried to form something that would reason with the man.
"Look…I know you love her. You love her so much you think no other woman would compare," Quatre said softly. "But do you think forcing her to love you will make you happy?"
Quatre could feel the peoples' eyes on him as he spoke, trying to get the man to calm down.
"How would you know?!" he snapped suddenly, his teeth clenched. "You don't even know what love is! I do! I gave her flowers every morning, and I gave her every compliment a girl would want!"
"I'm so-orry, I thought it was a f-friendly gesture," she whimpered.
"SHUT UP!" Robert shouted, causing her to sob again. "I don't want to hear your pathetic excuses!"
"Robert, please…," Quatre said quietly. "Why do you love her?"
"Why? I'll tell you why. Because she's beautiful, intelligent, she likes the same kinds of classes I like. Because she's just made for me!" he shouted.
Quatre nodded, "I understand, but…those are just the allusion; the outside of a person. Just because she has the same interests, or because she looks nice doesn't mean that she's the one. There are plenty of girls just like her, with the same interests as you. If you focus your time all on one girl you'll miss the one girl who's been trying to capture your attention."
Maria whimpered, "He's right, Robert. M-my friend Cynthia has a crush on you."
"SHUT UP!" Robert shouted, pointing the gun more steadily in their direction. "Don't think I don't realize what's going on! You think that you can just sweeten me up with your sugary words, pretty boy! But let me tell you, I know a slut when I see one! It's probably because you're blonde, isn't it?" he asked, directing his attention toward Maria. "Yes, I've heard blondes can be the kinkiest! Is that it, Maria? How about you show us what he's got more than me!"
Maria burst into more tears, as Quatre's heart began to pound in his chest. There was nothing that could get through to the guy. Quatre only hoped the police would get there soon.
"You know what? I've got a better idea. How about I take that kinky blonde slut away from you!" Robert said, his tone still enraged.
Maria's eyes went wide, "N-no, please…Robert, you're making a mistake. He's not involved, leave him out of it…"
"I KNEW IT! Now you're trying to protect him! Well I want to know exactly what he's done to smitten you, Maria! But I know you…you'll make up some damn excuse and then behind my back go sleep with him!"
"NO! Robert stop this!" she screamed, tears dripping down her face.
"Please…Robert, listen to her," Quatre pleaded.
"Take your arms off her!" Robert shouted, staring heatedly at him.
Quatre froze, staring down at her as she was still clasped onto him, sobbing hysterically.
"TAKE YOUR ARMS OFF HER OR I'LL SHOOT THE BOTH OF YOU!"
Quatre quickly grasped her hands and took them off, ushering soothing words in whispers so he couldn't hear. Maria whimpered and wrapped her arms around herself, tears still falling freely.
"That's it…see, Maria. He can't protect you. He can't give you anything that can keep you alive. If it's pleasure you want I can learn, Maria!"
She shook her head, lowering her eyes as she continued to cry. Quatre felt his throat tighten, wondering what was going to happen next. He felt so helpless.
Robert licked his lips and took another step forward, "If you like him so much, Maria, I can learn from him! I'll do exactly as he does!" Robert's eyes turned on Quatre, "Come here, slut!"
"NO! Please, Robert! Leave him alone!" she screeched.
"I SAID COME HERE SLUT OR SHE DIES!" Robert hollered, pointing the gun straight at Maria, who cowered back fearfully.
Quatre had no choice as he stood up slowly, careful to not make any sudden moves and began walking toward him. Robert kept the gun pointed at him as he neared until he was less than five feet away. Suddenly, Robert lashed out and grabbed him roughly, turning him around and slinging his arm around Quatre's neck to hold him in a choke-grasp as he pointed the gun in front of him.
"STAY BACK!" he ordered as he began backing up slowly with Quatre being dragged along with him.
Robert looked back at Maria who was still cowering on the floor, "I can learn everything from him, Maria! And then you will love me, you'll see!"
Robert began backing away until he was almost away from the restaurant, taking Quatre with him. Before they had exited through the door, Quatre saw Duo's angry expression and knew that his friend would save him.
TO BE CONTINUED…
I'm sorry! I know, such drama! ^-^ Well, yes, poor Quatre, he just seems to be getting into too much trouble, ne? But I PROMISE there will be romance in the next chapter. I know there wasn't much in this one, but I had to make something else happen in order for the loving to begin….you'll see in the next chapter. NEXT CHAPTER ROMANCE BEGINS! **shounen-ai** *cheers* I'm actually planning to get the next chapter out Saturday morning. *grins* I think I can do it that soon! This was actually supposed to be a double chapter, but I wanted to get this up on time, that's why the next chapter will come out so soon. ^-^
To Reviewers:
Ashen Skies:
^-^ Yes, romance comes in next chapter and surprisingly lemons will follow shortly after that. I know, I know, you want some romance and not just action/mystery/adventure. Romance is all it's missing and I PROMISE lots to come in the next chapter! ^-^Bishie Lovers 'R' Us:
^-^ Thanks! *grins* Yes, I try to describe what they're wearing just so you can get a better picture. I'll make sure to go more in detail during the lemons. ^-~Yumi1621:
I know, horrible cliffhanger for this chapter too! That's why I'm hoping to get the next chapter up in two days. ^-^ And it should have shounen-ai in the next chapter!! Then the lemons will follow shortly.Reaper-of-the-Damned:
^-^ *grins* I try to update as fast as possible. Hopefully I'll get the next chapter out in two days. *cheers* That's my goal.Shinigami4ever:
*grins* Of course they get free dinners! ^-^ Heero and Trowa would never lie! And they'll be getting other things from them too…but that comes a little later. Shounen-ai in next chapter and lemons are following shortly after!